Extend Your Home’s Space with Functional Outdoor Areas

With more and more people working from home these days, modern homeowners can become a bit stir-crazy. While the convenience is undoubtedly a perk, the same four walls staring at you at all hours of the day are sure to enhance anyone’s sense of claustrophobia. As such, functional exterior spaces are becoming an increasingly crucial component of modern properties. 

Not only do they do wonders for curb appeal, but they also give homeowners the chance to enjoy a much-needed change of scenery on their own property. With this in mind, keep reading as we explore some creative ways to extend your home’s space with functional outdoor areas. 

Install Durable Pavers

Choosing the correct outdoor flooring is one of the most important components of creating a functional exterior. Nobody wants to be ankles-deep in mud or standing water when trying to access their picnic table. The best outdoor pavers will provide a strong combination of durability, aesthetics, and drainage. 

Composite pavers are a popular material in this regard. They can be manufactured in a wide array of designs to mimic the appearance of natural stone. However, they are far more lightweight and lower maintenance, making them the ideal flooring option for outdoor kitchens, patios, walkways, and any other surface that needs to withstand foot traffic. 

Add Some Shade

Even the most awe-inspiring exteriors will sit underutilized without adequate shading. Sure, there are some days when it is nice to bask in the sun, but it is generally inconvenient to feel like you have to apply sun protection every time you want to spend time in your outdoor hangouts. Therefore, shading features are some of the most functional additions homeowners can make. 

Pergolas are an ideal option for decks, patios, outdoor kitchens, and virtually any type of outdoor gathering spot. They provide much-needed shade while also tying the space together with architectural intrigue. Other shading features include retractable awnings and roll-up shades for patios. For even greater climate control on particularly hot days, directional fans and misting systems can provide additional cooling for optimal comfort. 

Impress with Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens are all the rage in backyards these days. They take the whole concept of a backyard barbeque to the next level, providing an all-inclusive venue for preparing meals without having to make countless trips back and forth to the indoor kitchen. While durable flooring pavers and adequate shading are a must in outdoor kitchens, they also have some additional needs to be able to meet the demands of mealtime while withstanding the Great Outdoors. 

Nonporous quartz countertops, PVC cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances are some of the best materials for maximizing performance while minimizing upkeep requirements in an outdoor kitchen. Additionally, consider using hail resistant shingles for the roofing. These shingles not only protect the structure from severe weather but also add a layer of safety and longevity to your outdoor kitchen area.

Incorporate Decking for Outdoor Enjoyment

Decking is a versatile option for expanding your outdoor living space. It creates a designated area for relaxation and entertainment while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your property. When selecting decking materials, consider options that offer durability and weather resistance, such as composite, treated wood, or IPE wood decking. IPE wood is particularly renowned for its strength and natural resistance to the elements, making it a beautiful and long-lasting choice for outdoor surfaces.

Building a deck allows for seamless integration with landscaping, providing an ideal platform for outdoor furniture and accessories. You can enhance your deck with features like built-in seating, planters, or even a hot tub for a touch of luxury. Furthermore, incorporating lighting elements can create a warm ambiance for evening gatherings, making your outdoor area functional and inviting.

Build a Fire Pit

There is something about a fire that just brings everyone together. It has a captivating quality that will undoubtedly serve as the focal point for hours of enjoyment. A stately stone firepit is a great means of containing burning logs while providing stunning aesthetics in a backyard. 

Portable electric or gas fire pits promote customization while still providing 360-degree access around which all guests can converge. More robust outdoor fireplaces are also a great option for larger areas looking to create more of an all-inclusive outdoor living room. 

Create Transitional Spaces

Many properties are increasingly leveraging transitional interior/exterior spaces. These natural segues not only help maximize outdoor square footage, but they can actually make the interior feel more spacious as well. To skillfully transition from the indoors to a connected patio, lanai, or other transitional area, it is important to use the correct design features. 

Glass sliding doors are essential, as they optimize light transmission and promote the connected ambiance at all times. Using the same 12x12 deck tiles in both the interior and exterior flooring is another great way to smooth transitions. It is also important to take a look at soundproofing walls. Indoor and outdoor sounds do not always mesh seamlessly, so look into acoustic wood panels that can help absorb sound while still serving as a natural transition material between indoor and outdoor spaces. 

Expand Your Property with Functional Exterior Space Today

With people spending more time at home than ever, creating functional outdoor areas is crucial to provide a much-needed change of scenery. From durable flooring pavers to seamless transitional spaces, consider any of the outdoor ideas listed above to extend the functional space of your home. For more of the latest lifestyle and home improvement trends, explore the content at Fine Magazine for ideas and inspiration today!

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